Washington State Hikes
Ever thought about hiking in Washington State? Now is the time to go! This gorgeous corner of the United States is one of the best places in the world for hiking, offering tremendous diversity and thrilling trails. From the green temperate rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula, to the soaring peaks of the Cascades National Park, there’s something here for all adventure travelers.
Hiking in Washington State is a real treat for keen trekkers. The Cascades National Park makes a stunning backdrop for some of the most thrilling hikes and ridge walks in the country, where you’ll find yourself looking over a panorama of craggy peaks, wildflower meadows and emerald lakes. The old growth forests around Mount Baker are a wonderful place for a ramble, with trails that look over glacier-covered mountains and daringly high passes. Finally, the Olympic Peninsula offers something completely different – bracing coastal walks, unusual wildlife, and moss-covered gorges, deep in the heart of ancient forests.
What are you waiting for? Start planning your hiking trip to Washington State today. We’ve put together all the information that you’ll need, from trail recommendations for all hiking levels, to weather and travel advice. Now is the time to enjoy everything this wonderful state has to offer.
Types Of Hiking In Washington State
Washington State is known for the diversity of its landscapes, meaning that there’s a trail here to suit everyone. In the west, the Olympic National Park occupies a large peninsula with some incredible scenery, ranging from coastal trails to lush, temperate rainforest. Kids will love the easy, low level trails here, winding through magical ancient forests covered in a vibrant coat of moss. You’ll also find some easy, accessible hikes in the North Cascades National Park, where woodland and wildflower trails are perfectly offset by the surrounding vista of tall, craggy peaks.
If you’re an adventure hiker looking for a challenge, there’s plenty in Washington State to keep you occupied. Some of the toughest trails can be found near Mount Baker and in the North Cascades National park, where the climbs are steep and the route are long. However, the reward for your exertions is pretty phenomenal – you’ll be right in the heart of some of Washington State’s greatest wildernesses, with mind-blowing views, colorful trails, and some of the region’s most fascinating wildlife.
Easy Hikes In Washington State
Hole in the Wall Hike: This magnificent trek is one of our favorite easy hikes in Washington State. The trail takes you from the edge of the Pacific Ocean to a collection of impressive boulders and rock formations further along the coast. As you walk along the beach you’ll feel the crashing power of the ocean to your left, before you finally reach a steep ridge that offers beautiful views over the coastline.
Washington Pass Overlook Hike: If you’re in the North Cascades National Park, don’t miss this enjoyable easy hike. At just under half a kilometer, it’s a great place to stretch your legs on the drive between eastern and western Washington State. It may be a short route, but you’ll get a fantastic view of Liberty Bell Mountain and Silver Star Mountain.
Family Hikes In Washington State
Blue Lake Hike: If you’re looking for a family-friendly trail in the North Cascades National Park, this hike to Blue Lake is an excellent option. Surrounded by the dramatic Liberty Bell Mountain spires, Blue Lake is simply gorgeous, and at its best when the leaves start to turn in autumn. This trail, which snakes through woodland, and wildflower fields past a rocky lakeside, is perfect for children, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife-spotting along the way.
Marymere Falls Hike: Bring your family to the beautiful Marymere Falls and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a magical world! The trail winds its way through shady temperate rainforest and up a steep track to the falls. The beautiful old growth forest has a character all of its own, and kids will love the mossy ravine, dressed in bright green ferns.
Day Hikes In Washington State
High Divide Loop Hike: This challenging route in the Olympic National Park is one of the best day hikes in Washington State. The trail passes along a beautiful ridge above the tree line, offering incredible views over Mount Olympus. Take the route clockwise for the most impressive vista, and look out for a glimpse of the enormous Blue Glacier. This day trek is a long hike, but it’s a rewarding challenge for those looking for something extra special in the Olympic National Park.
Cutthroat Pass Hike: This route along the Pacific Crest Trail is one of the best day hikes in Washington State, and a must for all keen hikers! The path to the top rises moderately through a dense forest, crossing over Porcupine Creek, and rising to a series of switchbacks that will take you to the top of the pass. The views from the top are stunning, with a 360 degree vista over the peaks of North Cascades National Park.
Challenging Hikes In Washington State
Ptarmigan Ridge Hike: Want to get away from it all? This hike along Ptarmigan Ridge is the best place to come if you’re looking for solitude and a challenging hike. You’ll cross permanent snowfields, wander through flower-filled meadows and scramble over boulders, all that while enjoying the fabulous Mount Baker. Look out for mountain goats and marmots, and enjoy the majestic beauty of this remarkable landscape.
Hannegan Pass and Peak Hike: This hike up Hannegan Pass and Hannegan Peak is a steep climb, but it’s well worth the effort! The trail winds in and out of lush forests, across wide, open meadows, and over gurgling mountain streams. The views all the way along the route are simply magnificent, dominated by the snow-capped Ruth Mountain. The 360-degree panorama over Cascade Mountain at the top will certainly make you forget your aching legs!
Best Hikes In Washington State
Chain Lakes Loop: This classic circular hike is a wonderful summer trek, and an excellent way to experience the region around Mount Baker. The route begins at the Heather Meadows Visitor Center, and climbs from Artist Point up to the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail. You’ll experience fabulous mountain and lake views, and enjoy the wildflower fields and berry-lined trails to their full advantage.
Yellow Aster Butte Trail: This challenging ascent is one of the best hikes in Washington State, and one of our favorites in the region around Mount Baker. You’ll pass dense woodland, lively mountain streams, and peaceful tarns, before finally summiting Yellow Aster Butte. This scenic peak offers some of the most spectacular views in the region, and is at its best in autumn, when the turning leaves light up the forest in a blaze of crimson and orange.
Royal Basin Hike: For a challenging hike where you can escape the crowds, head to the Olympic National Forest, where this wonderful trail begins. The climb is a little difficult as you ascend a steep trail alongside Royal Creek, but the rewards at the top are simply fabulous. Enjoy the views over Greywolf Mountain and the serene waters of the gorgeous Royal Lake.
Ladder Creek Falls Hike: Looking for a family-friendly hike with plenty of entertainment for younger kids? This short trek to Ladder Creek Falls could be the solution! The trail crosses the river and passes through a rich forest, before emerging at the falls just in time for the evening light show. This innovative performance is a great way to experience the falls themselves, and kids are sure to love it.
Table Mountain Hike: A trip to Washington State wouldn’t be complete without a Table Mountain hike, and this trail offers some of the best views you’ll find over Mount Baker. You’ll need a head for heights, as this trail is somewhat exposed, but the rewards are incomparable. You’ll get a 360-degree panorama over Mount Shuksan and Mount Baker, and a vista that will take your breath away.
Lake Ann Hike: This moderate hike is an excellent way to experience the best of the Mount Baker region without too much exertion. The trail runs alongside Swift Creek, before ascending the slopes above the treeline. The summit near Lake Ann is a fabulous place for a picnic, and you’ll be able to enjoy views of Mount Shuksan and its thunderous waterfalls.
Klahhane Ridge Hike: Looking for a spectacular ridge hike that won’t require too much energy? Try this route over Klahhane Ridge, one of the best hikes in Washington State. The trail begins at the high viewpoint of Hurricane Ridge, meaning that you won’t need to climb up a steep hill to experience fantastic views over the Olympic National Park. Once you’ve summited the pass near Mount Angeles you’ll have an even more impressive vista, taking in Mount Olympus, Mount Angeles and Second Top.
Maple Pass Loop Hike: This hike is one of the finest in the North Cascades National Park, and a must for all adventure travelers! Make sure you arrive in the right season, and the trail is only accessible during the summer months. However, if you time it right, you’ll experience some stunning views and a deeply satisfying, varied hike. You’ll find ridges littered with wild flowers and a beautiful alpine lake – what more could you ask for?
Hoh River Trail Hike: This beautiful trail passes through the dense, temperate rainforest that Washington State is famous for. This magical, otherworldly landscape will transport you to a time of myth and legend, as you pass through old growth forest coated with fragrant moss. The River Hoh acts as your guide on this trail, and you’ll follow the path of the water until you come to the Five Mile Island campground, where you’ll have the chance to spot herds of deer and elk.
Easy Pass Hike: Come to the North Cascades National Park in autumn, when the larches shine in ablaze of yellow glory at the turning of the leaves. You’ll find stunning fall colors, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Don’t let the name lull you into a false sense of security – this hike is somewhat challenging! However, the rewards are simply breathtaking.
When Is The Best Time To Hike In Washington State?
It’s possible to go hiking year-round in Washington State, and this beautiful region has hikes for every type of weather. Spring is a wonderful time to visit, as the forests and meadows will be covered in a carpet of wild flowers and the extra light opens up the possibility of doing slightly longer trails. High-altitude treks will still be covered in snow, but snowshoeing is still a possibility.
The peak hiking season comes in summer, although over the highest trails it’s confined to July and August. At this time the weather is usually warm and sunny, although the trails may be crowded. For quieter routes, plan your visit in late spring and early autumn.
Perhaps the most spectacular time to hike in Washington State is September and early October, when the forests erupt in a blaze of autumn colors. However, over the higher peaks, early snows can limit hiking opportunities, so watch out for weather updates and take advice from local guides. Although some low-level trails remain open in winter, the roads through the national parks are typically blocked by snow. This is a fantastic time to get your snowshoes and skis out to enjoy the slopes!
Best Regions For Hiking in Washington State
One of the best regions for hiking in Washington State is undoubtedly the North Cascades National Park, a beautiful region boasting dense forests, jagged peaks, and stunning alpine lakes. Close by, the Mount Baker region is another hiking gem. Although it’s best known as a top skiing destination, Mount Baker has some incredible summer hiking trails, offering the possibility of getting up close to the iconic Mount Shuksan. The trails here are typically covered in wildflowers and berries, making this one of our favorite places to hike in the region. Further west, the Olympic National Park offers wonderful hiking trails in a unique, epic landscape. Here, you’ll find coastal trails, atmospheric tide pools and dense temperate rainforest, in addition to mountain and ridge hikes.
Other Outdoor Activities in Washington State
Although we love hiking in the North Cascades National Park and the area around Mount Baker, there are many other outdoor activities in Washington State! The national parks of this beautiful region offer many possibilities for backpacking and through hikes, and this could be the ideal spot to try your first long-distance trek. If you’re an avid climber, Washington State is something of a paradise, with more than 100 mountains and climbing routes to suit all levels of expertise. In the coastal areas you’ll also find windsurfing, paddle-boarding and other watersports, and when the snows hit, you can get our your snowshoes and cross-country skis for some serious winter adventures.
How To Plan A Trip To Washington State
If these suggestions have got you reaching for your hiking boots, start planning your trip to Washington State today! We’ve got everything you’ll need to get started – our Mount Baker guide is perfect for advice on hiking routes and our Olympic National Park guide has everything you’ll need to plan your trip. Don’t miss our expert tips on planning your visit to the North Cascades National Park. Whatever your question, we’ve got it covered!
Hiking regions in Washington State
Best Hikes in Washington State
Heart O’ the Forest Trail
Want to immerse yourself in an old-growth forest? The Heart O’ the Forest Trail does just that, leading you through groves of ancient trees typical of the Pacific Northwest to a river bed perfect to relax on. This heavily trafficked trail is easy-moderate with 258 m of elevation to complete. The route is easy to follow and decently maintained.
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Olympic Switchback Trail
The Olympic Switchback Trail does exactly what it claims to: switchback and make you feel like you’re competing in the Olympics. This short but very steep hike is all switchbacks to a viewpoint next to Mount Angeles. It’s a grind, but a brief one. Poles are helpful and we recommend waiting for a dry day to hike this trail.
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Maiden Peak from Deer Park Campground
Maiden Peak from Deer Park Campground is a moderately challenging hike, but on a clear day, the views are sublime. You’ll traverse to Green Mountain and then across to Maiden Peak in 11.3 km. Some hikers find this trail to be very manageable, and some find it difficult. Find out for yourself what you think!
Bring lots of water. On a clear day, this trail can get hot.
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PJ Lake Trail
PJ Lake Trail is a heavily trafficked out-and-back trail in Olympic National Park that is rated as hard. This 2.4 km trek isn’t long, but it’s very steep on the way back from the lake, with a dusty trail that tends to slip out from under you. Some hikers feel the lake is underwhelming, but the waterfall along the trail is a pleasant sight.
Take lots of water and trekking poles on this hike.
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Moments in Time Trail
Moments in Time Trail is a very easy, very quick interpretive loop trail on the shore of Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park. This trail teaches you about the lake’s natural and cultural history and provides the chance to enjoy the scenery and stretch your legs. At only 1.1 km long with next to no elevation gain, adventurers of all ages and levels can walk this trail.
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Peabody Creek Trail
Peabody Creek Trail is a little escape from the urban world within Port Angeles. This 8.4 km trail is a moderate hike, with gentle elevation gain and a well-defined route. This is also one of the few trails in Olympic National Park that allows dogs, though they must be kept on a leash.
This trail is easy to complete, but there are a few narrow sections. Other than that, you’re likely to have a relaxed, enjoyable walk!
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Dry Creek Trail
Dry Creek Trail is a moderately trafficked route in Olympic National Forest that features a very serene stretch of forest and the shore of Lake Cushman. This moderate hike isn’t too challenging, so beginners and families can make the trip. Additionally, this trail falls outside of the park, making it dog-friendly.
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Appleton Pass via Sol Duc Falls
Appleton Pass via Sol Duc Falls can be done either as a long day hike or a backpacking trip. To complete this hard hike in a day is a feat, but it can be done. With 23.5 km and 1,197 m of elevation gain required, it’s a big trip, but the views from the pass are quite rewarding.
Poles, lots of water, and food are recommended for this day trip.
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Madison Falls Trail
Madison Falls Trail is a very short, easy walk to a lovely cascading waterfall in Olympic National Park. At only 0.3 km and with 8 m of elevation gain, this hike is more of a relaxed walk. Add it to your adventures in the park for a beautiful view without the work.
This is one of the few trails in Olympic National Park that allows dogs, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
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Little River Trail
Little River Trail is a long route in Olympic National Park, favored for its calm atmosphere and lush forest. This particular trail goes right up to the base of Hurricane Hill without climbing it, making it a bit easier—although with 1,100 m of elevation gain to complete, it’s still a hard hike. You’ll likely only see a few other groups on this lightly trafficked trail.
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Slab Camp Trail
Slab Camp Trail is a moderate hike in Olympic National Forest that trails through the forest along the river. This hike allows dogs on leash and requires no permits or passes. It’s just under 9.0 km in length and involves 416 m of elevation gain, making it suitable for strong beginners and better.
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Handy Camp via Upper Dungeness Trail
Handy Camp via Upper Dungeness Trail is a common choice for half-day hikers and new backpackers alike due to its moderate difficulty and its pretty scenery. You’ll walk through the forest alongside the idyllic Dungeness River for over 10km, gaining manageable elevation along the way. This trail is generally in good condition and is easy to follow.
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Deer Ridge Trail
Deer Ridge Trail is a hard hike packing 900 m of elevation gain into a 14.8 km trail. This hike is generally easy to follow and the wildflowers in summer are beautiful. Although this trail begins in Olympic National Forest, it ends in Olympic National Park, so dogs are not allowed on the trail unless you turn around at the park boundary. The access road has some larger potholes, so drive carefully.
We recommend bringing poles to help on steep sections.
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Lower South Fork Skokomish Trail
The Lower South Fork Skokomish Trail is a 19.0 km hiking trail in Olympic National Park that is moderately difficult and lightly trafficked. This hike is mostly a walk in the woods with peekaboo views of the river, making it very laid-back. Besides some elevation gain at the start, it’s a flatter, more gradual route.
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Mount Washington Hike
The Mount Washington hike is a hard hike in Olympic National Park that sees moderate traffic. Don’t be fooled by the light mileage, this is a challenging trek with lots of steep sections and sometimes slippery footing. You’ll also want to download a GPS route to avoid losing the trail, which could prove treacherous on some sections.
We recommend hiking this trail on a dry day for the best footing and bringing poles.
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Lakes Dorothy, Bear, Deer, and Snoqualmie Hike
The Lakes Dorothy, Bear, Deer, and Snoqualmie Hike provides access to Lake Dorothy, Bear Lake, Deer Lake, and Snoqualmie Lake. Four lakes on one hard hike makes for a great day! You’ll cover 20.9 km on this moderately trafficked route. Beware that some of the trail is subject to washout and the road to the trailhead is closed in certain weather conditions. Additionally, this trail is buggy, so bring a good spray.
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Elk Mountain Trail Loop
The Elk Mountain Trail is a loop hike that passes under Obstruction Peak, up to Elk Mountain, and back through the lower valley. This 6.9 km hike is moderately difficult, with a few steep sections but nothing that the novice hiker can’t handle. You can hike either way, but most hikers prefer going clockwise.
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Heather Park and Mount Angeles via Lake Angeles Trail
Heather Park and Mount Angeles via Lake Angeles Trail is a 25.4 km hike with a hefty 1,882 m elevation gain. This hard trail can be completed as either a day hike or a backpacking trip, and those planning on doing it in a day should come prepared! With some sections of iffy trail, it’s worth carefully deciding which way to go and potentially only hiking one side of the loop.
Poles are helpful to have on this hike.
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Falls View Canyon Trail
The Falls View Canyon Trail is a short trail in Olympic National Park near Highway 101. This hike follows the Big Quilcene River to a short flowing waterfall. It may seem very easy in terms of distance and elevation gain, but there are steep sections with poor, eroded footing. We don’t recommend this trail for extremely young children or those who feel they might struggle with these challenges.
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Kalaloch to Browns Point Trail
The Kalaloch to Browns Point Trail is a beautiful beach walk in Olympic National Park that is 8.7 km long and requires only 32 m of elevation gain, making it an easy trek. This hike is favored for its beautiful views, occasional humpback sightings, and its Tree of Life, a big tree suspended over an eroded section of shore. There is also a campsite on the beach.